Pernicious Anemia

Definition

Anemia is a low level of healthy red blood cells (RBC). RBCs carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. When red blood cells are low the body does not get enough oxygen. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, or irregular heartbeat.

Pernicious anemia is associated with problems absorbing vitamin B12. This vitamin is needed to make healthy RBCs. Over time the low vitamin B12 levels will reduce the number of new RBCs. The sooner pernicious anemia is treated, the better the outcome.

Treatment

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Vitamin B12 Injections

The treatment consists of injections of vitamin B12 into a muscle. These injections are necessary because the intestines cannot absorb enough vitamin B12 without an adequate supply of intrinsic factor from the stomach.

Oral Vitamin B12 Supplement

If you are elderly, your doctor may advise you to take oral B12 supplements alone or in addition to injections of vitamin B12.

Intranasal Vitamin B12

Your doctor may give you a supplement of vitamin B12 that is sprayed into the nose.

Oral Iron Therapy

This treatment is recommended when an iron deficiency exists. In this case, the doctor will tell you to take iron supplements before treating with vitamin B12.

Prevention

There are no current guidelines to prevent pernicious anemia.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.